Indonesia prohibits rockmelons from Australia after fourth death

• Mar 08, 2018

The Indonesian government has prohibited the import of rockmelon from Australia following the death of a fourth person who had eaten a melon contaminated with listeria monocyctogenes bacteria.

The decision is detailed in the new Agricultural Decree No. 207/2018 on the prohibition of Australian rockmelons, Banun Harpini, head of the Agriculture Ministry’s quarantine agency, said in Jakarta on Wednesday.

 “It is part of an effort to protect consumers in Indonesia and to prevent further [deaths],” Banun said in a statement.

The ban was implemented on March 3 and includes rockmelons that were in transit in other countries and heading to Indonesia.

Meanwhile, rockmelons that have already entered the country will be destroyed.

“The move is based on prevailing regulations, particularly on plant quarantines,” Banun said.

AFP reported that a fourth person had died in the state of Victoria after consuming melon contaminated with listeria on Wednesday. Australian authorities said the outbreak had so far affected 17 people.

Listeria is a common bacterium that does not affect most people. However, it can pose a threat to the elderly, pregnant women or those suffering from diabetes or cancer.

Listeriosis begins with flu-like symptoms, including chills, fever and muscle aches. It has an incubation period of up to 70 days. (bbn)

Source: http://www.thejakartapost.com/news/2018/03/08/indonesia-prohibits-rockmelons-from-australia-after-fourth-death.html